Overproof
Also known as: navy strength, cask strength, high proof
Spirits bottled at higher than standard alcohol content, typically above 50% ABV (100 proof), offering more intense flavor and alcohol punch.
Overproof spirits are bottled at higher than standard alcohol content, typically above 50% ABV (100 proof). These powerful spirits offer intense flavor and require careful handling in cocktails. Standard spirits are typically 40% ABV (80 proof). Overproof exceeds this threshold, often significantly. Overproof rum commonly reaches 75.5% ABV (151 proof). Navy strength gin is standardized at 57% ABV (114 proof). Cask strength whiskeys can exceed 60% ABV. The term overproof originated from the historical proof testing method. Spirits that exceeded the minimum standard for igniting gunpowder were considered overproof - stronger than necessary to prove themselves. Overproof spirits serve specific purposes in cocktails. Their concentrated flavors can stand up to other strong ingredients. They can float on top of drinks, providing aromatic punch. They ignite reliably for flaming cocktails. Their higher alcohol can extract more flavor from citrus oils. Navy strength gin earned its designation because the British Royal Navy required spirits strong enough that spilled alcohol would not prevent gunpowder from igniting. At 57% ABV, properly gunpowder-proof, this remains the standard for navy strength spirits. Overproof rum plays an essential role in tiki drinks. The Zombie calls for overproof rum as a float. Navy grog and other classics use it for intensity. Properly employed, overproof rum adds dimension impossible to achieve otherwise. Using overproof spirits requires adjustment. Substituting 151-proof rum for 80-proof rum creates a dramatically different drink - nearly twice the alcohol content. Either reduce the amount or expect much stronger results. Safety considerations apply especially to 151-proof spirits. These can ignite easily, creating dangerous flaming drinks if mishandled. Never flame drinks near people, and have a way to extinguish flames ready. Better yet, leave flaming cocktails to professionals. Overproof spirits are not better or worse than standard proof - they serve different purposes. The additional alcohol intensity suits certain applications while being inappropriate for others. Choose based on the specific drink and desired result.
💡 Pro Tips
- Reduce amounts when substituting for standard-proof spirits
- Excellent for floats where you want boozy impact
- Higher ABV extracts more flavor from citrus oils
- Navy strength at 57% ABV is the traditional British standard
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using the same amounts as standard-proof spirits
- Underestimating the alcohol content and potency
- Creating flaming drinks without proper safety precautions
- Not accounting for the more intense flavor
